Integrating product takeback and technical service

Abstract

Product service and product takeback are often interrelated, as the reclamation of parts from end-of-life products is a low-cost alternative for obtaining spares for product repair. In this paper, we outline a concept for the integration of product repair and product takeback. We show that the replacement of a large share of conventional repairs with remanufacturing and reconditioning would result in a higher service level in product repair, and a significantly improved financial performance in both product takeback and product repair. The concept outlined in this paper could be a financially and environmentally sustainable solution for high return volumes in product takeback for a variety of electromechanical and electronic products. Low-cost alternatives to new products could become available on the market through the offering of remanufactured and reconditioned products with the same warranty as newly manufactured products. This extends the purchase options for consumers from simply getting a defective product repaired and buying a new product.